An official website of the European Union. See all European Institutions
Human Rights & Democracy
The European Union views all human rights as universal, indivisible and interdependent. It actively promotes and defends them both within its borders and when engaging in relations with non-EU countries.
“We will keep mobilising all our means to protect all those that have been and continue to be exposed to this abhorrent human rights violation and stand by all those who very courageously engage against this crime through awareness raising, engagement in civil society organisations or support to victims.” On the occasion of the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, the EU reaffirms once again its strongest commitment to prevent, condemn and eradicate all forms of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.
EU High Representative Mogherini on 25 June presented EU foreign ministers with the second annual report on the implementation of the EU Global Strategy, outlining substantial progress in bolstering the EU's role as a global actor.
"Sexual violence against women, girls, men and boys is a despicable crime, and even more so when it occurs in vulnerable situations of conflict, or as a tactic of war. It is a grave violation of human rights and international humanitarian law, and must be fought with the strongest commitment" the EU stressed on International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict.
Natural resources belong to local communities not to militias. Since 2003, the EU and international partners representing 99% of the world’s diamond trade have joined forces to make sure that the production and trade of rough diamond contributes to peace and sustainable economic and human development. Through the Chairmanship this year, and a number of concrete projects, the EU is committed to prevent the trade in conflict diamonds and improve mining communities’ livelihoods.
Civic tech is no passing fad or tech du jour. It might even be more profound than, say, social media, mobile telephony, robotics or the blockchain because it goes straight to the essence of community, the public life that binds us all. Just think about it before you say no!
